Word Meaningquently mentioned in the network literature. For further elaboration, see
Cruse (1986, 2001).
The network model characterizes not just the semantic relations among
separate words, it can also describe the relationships between the senses of
individual words. For instance, if you look up the noun order in a dictionary,
you will find its meanings broken down by numerals and letters to include
such different notions as: 1. a condition of arrangement, 2. customary proce-
dure, 3. something requested for purchase, 4. a monastic group, etc. Each one
of these senses enters into different network relations with the senses of other
words. For instance, sense 1 of order would be an antonym of one sense of dis-
order; sense 3 might refer to a whole of which the word entrée (in a restaurant)
represents a part.
Exercise
- Using the N model, indicate how each of the following word pairs are
related. Write down any difficulties you have in coming to a decision.
a. forward—backward
b. casual—formal
c. car—wheels
d. car—passenger
e. journey (verb)—travel (verb)
f. week—semester
g. freshman—sophomore
h. turkey (fowl)—turkey (undesirable person)
i. brain (body part)—brain (very intelligent person) - Using the N model, indicate the semantic relations among the words
in each of the groups below. To simplify your work, write the group of
words in a circle and draw lines between related words; label each line
with one of the network relations. Later, redraw your diagram to show
relations clearly.
a. car, truck, locomotive, wheels, trunk, hood, horn, vehicle
b. delay, linger, loiter, procrastinate, hasten, hurry, stampede (all
as intransitive verbs)
c. selfish, egocentric, altruistic, giving
The componential model
The componential model (C-model) is based on the premise that word